You may not have seen The Mandalorian but we are almost certain that you have seen the character of Baby Yoda. The loveable green baby with large eyes and even larger ears. The alien (the name of the species has never been recorded) took the World by storm appearing in memes and merchandise. At the luxury marketing agency, we were glued to the series that featured Pedro Pascal as a bounty-hunter travelling across the universe to reunite the youngling with his kind. Part of the Star Wars universe, The Mandalorian gained critical and commercial praise for its writing, direction and effects - crafting an immersive world thanks to the brilliant imagination of Jon Favreau. Inspired by the series, we have chosen 5 lessons that we believe can be applied to, the not so far-far away, business world.
Options encourage cooperation
Throughout the series, and the wider Star Wars universe, choice and options are integral to the development of many of the characters. The Mandalorian, in many of his interactions, is a brilliant negotiator who offers choice to those he deals with. Famously in the first episode, this ability to negotiate, of giving choice and options, leads to the co-operation of a bounty he was seeking. “I can bring you in warm, or I can bring you in cold.” Whilst we don’t recommend threatening employees or clients, offering options can help on-board a client, can foster and encourage cooperation and help a project be even more successful.
Support and encouragement make a difference
Determination, guided by a sense of what is right and what is wrong, is a key character trait of our main protagonist. We often witness support and encouragement from Mando, even whilst chiding the baby. One of the most visually exciting (and humorous scenes) involved the hunter droid IG-11 and Mando caught in a seemingly impossible situation. With their backs to the wall, literally and figuratively, the droid reverts back to his programming and threatens to self-destruct. However, Mando refuses to give in, convincing the droid not to go through with it and encourages him to fight by his side. With determination, and some emotional help, they fight their way out and achieve their goal — well, Mando’s goal.If you have a talented employee who needs some help to be successful, it’s in everyone’s self-interest to provide that help to assist each in being the best they can. Encouragement and support go a long way, not just on a professional level but on a personal one too.
Believe in the bigger picture
The Mandalorian is just one of many of his tribe who hail from the planet Mandalore located in the Outer Rim Territories. With no homeland, wiped out by the Sith, this faction, a band of brothers if you will, aim to find a new home for their people. Here we see that their focus and goal is the reason for their existence. The individual accomplishments of each of the Mandalorian forms part of the bigger picture and it is through the achievements of the individual that their wider and bigger goal seeks to be obtained. In a business setting, believing in and having clear goals is key to development and, with the space to flourish, the individual can feel that their own work has contributed directly to this bigger picture.
Accountability and Leadership
Throughout both series, and The Book of Boba Fett, we see the Mandalorian take accountability and lead those he comes across. A particularly touching scene is when the Mandalorian admits to the Armourer that he removed his helmet and was seen by a living creature which is forbidden by their ethics. Taking accountability for his actions he is cast out by his creed and has to make amends through his deeds. Accountability is key in business and allows those to own their work - the good and the not so good - and allows for people to strive to achieve. Elsewhere, we see leadership shown in interactions, in clear communication and in assuming positive intent. Leadership is a role that the protagonist grows into based on circumstance and one he seems to excel in. Bringing together various factions, Cara Dune and agent of the Bounty Hunter’s Guild Greef Karga in particular, shows his leadership in uniting seemingly disparate people to achieve a goal. It is this taking responsibility, of understanding the motivations of those two characters, of offering support and guidance which allows the bigger picture, and goal, to be reached.
Ethics - This is the way
The short phrase, “This is the way” encapsulates everything that the Mandalorian and his people stand for, and it acts as a reminder to live by their code. Guided by this strong moral compass, almost Eastern in its philosophical inception, forms the ethical guide for all interactions. On first glance the phrase can be seen or read with a sense of passivity - this is the way and it is out of my control. However, on closer inspection one can see that the phrase itself has a certain zen element to it. Through accepting the situation, accountability again, and responding to what is in front of us, not imagined or false, we can embrace the way and forge it as we see fit. In business, having a strong ethical foundation permeates all interactions with clients both old and new. Having strong foundation, as shown with ‘This is the way’, can inspire, create trust, unite those within and without the business and, much like the force, can be felt with all those who engage with a business or brand.
"This is the way "- The Mandalorian.
What films have inspired you? As always, comment below and let us know. Looking to grow your brand? Our luxury digital marketing agency can help you. With over 10 years working with leading luxury businesses, our boutique agency are interested in hearing about your latest project. Get in touch via hello@theluxurymarketingagency.com or call +44(0)7835 233607 to speak to our boutique team.
